Peace River Wildlife Center — Attraction in Punta Gorda

I really loved this place when I visited for the first time. I came down to Florida from Missouri and was really interested in something wildlife based to visit that 1. Didn't cost very much (this is perfect because there is no entrance fee, they only ask they you make a donation if you can. There is suggested amounts to donate, but no one is there twisting your arm) and 2. Didn't require much hiking to see cool things. It was quite hot and sunny the day we visited so it was nice that it was in more of an urban setting. I want to start by reminding anyone that this whole place is pretty much run by volunteers! They are super awesome people, very knowledgeable, and incredibly generous to dedicate their time to the care of all of the animals. For review purposes: I will warn anyone with children or a large party that it isn't the biggest place. It is a single walkway with animals and information on both sides. It is NOT air conditioned, but partially shaded. There is a small gift shop that IS air conditioned which is a wonderful break from the heat. There are not bathrooms in the facility, but there are the park bathrooms outside. While it isn't a "premium" experience, you get what you didn't have to pay for. If you really love wildlife, rehabilitation, and general education then it is a nice little place to visit. The gift shop had quite a few things I was...

What a fantastic way to end the year!

Our family trip to the Peace River Wildlife Center was nothing short of amazing, and it's all thanks to the incredible experience they offer.

A special shoutout to our guide, Michael, who was a treasure trove of knowledge and kindness. His passion for wildlife and the environment made our visit even more meaningful. I also enjoyed speaking with Michael about technology.

The Wildlife Center is home to an astounding variety of animals, each more fascinating than the last.

But the star of the show was undoubtedly the American Bald Eagle. Seeing such a beautiful and majestic creature up close was a humbling experience and easily the highlight of our visit.

I can't recommend the Peace River Wildlife Center enough to both visitors and locals. It's a gem that truly encapsulates the beauty and diversity of our natural world.

And the best part? There's no entry fee! They operate on recommended donations, making it accessible to everyone.

If you're looking for a memorable and educational experience, this is the place to be.

Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to connect with nature and support a fantastic cause!

And make sure you stop by the adjacent hotdog stand...

Peace River is a friendly place with a variety of Wildlife which are cared for with kindness as they came to Peace River from different backgrounds for different reasons. Basically each of their stories are interesting and some rather disheartening and sad. Some pets that never should have been in captivity and others born or injured unable to be released back in the wild. There are some very special people caring for them and know each of them well their special needs and just treating them with love and kindness. They are there as volunteers and they have an awesome gift shop with some very unique and well made items in which the proceeds go to donations to help fund the Center. It’s not too big my family went ages 11 months to 80 years old, four generations and it was interesting to us all. It is outside and if you could go on a better weather day it would be great! But really worth the trip. The fee per person is also a donation. Very affordable and a...